It is also included near-field communications technology that would allow users of other Sony products to transfer files between devices. The technology is being implemented in newer smartphone models, allowing consumers to pay for goods without opening their wallet.

Ovum analyst Tony Cripps said the tablet appeared to be aimed at restoring “Sony’s core values in the minds of consumers rather than change the tablet market status quo", since the company split from its smartphone joint venture with Ericsson in 2011.

“The company only has modest expectations for sales of the device, which is very much aimed at the premium end of the tablet spectrum," he said. “It is certainly not cheap and has Apple’s iPad as its primary competition after all."